Handpiece for Detection of Dental Demineralization

ABSTRACT

A dental implement including a housing, a light source, and an air supply.

RELATED CASES AND CLAIM FOR PRIORITY

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/617,103 filed on Dec. 28, 2006 and published on Jul. 3, 2008as 2008/0160477, the specification of which is incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY

The invention relates to dental devices and more particularly to devicesfor detection of tooth decay/dental demineralization.

While there has been a remarkable decline in the prevalence of dentalcaries (tooth decay) in U.S. children and adults during the past 40years, dental caries continues to be a major public health problem inselect portions of the U.S. population. Dental caries has beenidentified as the single most common chronic disease of childhood.Despite the strides made in treating and preventing dental caries,significantly more needs to be done to further combat the problem.

Dental caries is a chronic infectious disease and earlier detectionwould reduce the ravages of the disease. Current caries detectionmethods (clinical exams, x-rays) are unable to detect the decay processuntil it has progressed to a point where it is necessary to place arestoration (filling). Since the loss of mineral (demineralization) fromthe enamel is a chronic process that occurs over a period of months toyears, and since very small lesions (i.e., early detection) arecompletely reversible through the use of fluoride treatments and otherpreventive measures, the early detection of dental demineralizationallows dental professionals to administer professional treatments toreverse the demineralization process rather than undertake more costlyand less desirable restorative treatments.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a handheld dentalimplement is provided. The implement includes a housing defining aninterior space; a power source; a light source electrically coupled tothe power source; and a gas reservoir.

According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a wirelesshandheld dental implement is provided. The implement includes a housingdefining an interior space; a power source; a light source electricallycoupled to the power source; a reflective surface; and a gas conduitpositioned to transmit gas into contact with the reflective surface.

According to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, ahandheld dental implement is provided. The implement includes a powersource; a light source electrically coupled to the power source; and amicrophone.

According to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a dentalinvestigation system is provided. The system includes a handpieceincluding a light source, a light detecting device, and a wirelesscommunicator; and a receiver coupled to a processing unit configured toreceive wireless transmissions from the handpiece.

According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a dentalinvestigation system is provided. The system includes a processing unit;a handpiece in communication with the processing unit; and a microphonein communication with the processing unit.

According to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, amethod of recording data regarding a dental subject is provided. Themethod includes the steps of receiving pictures of a dental subject;associating the pictures with the dental subject; receiving audio input,the audio input containing information related to the dental subject;and associating the audio input with the dental subject.

According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a computerreadable medium is provided. The computer readable medium includesinstructions thereon such that when interpreted by a processor cause theprocessor to perform the steps of receiving pictures of a dentalsubject; associating the pictures with the dental subject; receivingaudio input, the audio input containing information related to thedental subject; and associating the audio input with the dental subject.

Additional features of the invention will become apparent to thoseskilled in the art upon consideration of the following detaileddescription of the illustrated embodiment exemplifying the best mode ofcarrying out the invention as presently perceived.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The detailed description particularly refers to the accompanying figuresin which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective, partially cut-away view of a handpiece fordetection of dental demineralization;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a lightpipe of the handpiece of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of a light source and the lightpipe ofFIG. 1 in contact with a tooth of a patient;

FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of a camera and the lightpipe of FIG.1 in contact with a tooth of a patient;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a prior art handpiece;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a second embodiment handpiece fordetection of dental demineralization;

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the handpiece of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a rear elevational view of the handpiece of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is a side, partially cut-away, view of the handpiece of FIG. 6;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the handpiece of FIG. 6 in a cradle;

FIG. 11 is a diagrammatical view of a computer and receiver for use withthe handpiece of FIG. 6;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a third embodiment handpiece fordetection of dental demineralization;

FIG. 13 is a side, partially cut-away, view of the handpiece of FIG. 12;and

FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of the handpiece of FIG. 12.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Tooth decay or dental caries result from a de-mineralization of dentaltissue. Introduction of light to dental tissue and observance of thefluorescence of the dental tissue allows early detection of dentaldemineralization through a process called quantitative lightfluorescence (QLF). “QLF” has been trademarked by Inspektor Dental Care(hereinafter “Inspektor”). The use of the term “QLF” herein is meant todenote a quantitative light fluorescence type system, and not thespecific system of Inspektor unless specifically stated otherwise. QLFallows earlier detection than a purely visual inspection and does nothave the side effects associated with radiographic examinations.Furthermore, QLF provides an objective method of analysis of dentaldemineralization by permitting a dentist or other caregiver to quantifythe size of lesions as well as monitor changes in the size of lesionsover time. A more detailed description of QLF and a method for utilizingQLF is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/411,625 toStookey et al. filed Apr. 10, 2003, the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference. Generally speaking, green fluorescenceis analyzed to determine demineralization and red fluorescence isanalyzed to determine the presence of plaque.

To gather data for processing in a QLF system, a handpiece 10, shown inFIG. 1, is utilized. Handpiece 10 includes a handle or shell 12, a lightpipe 14 attached to shell 12, an optical train 15 to receive light fromlight pipe 14, a camera 16 to detect light provided to optical train 15,a light source 18 to provide light to light pipe 14, and a conduit 20extending through shell 12. Shell 12 includes a left half shell 21 and aright half shell 23 that cooperate to house, at least partially, opticaltrain 15, camera 16, light source 18, and conduit 20. Shell 12furthermore couples to light pipe 14 as shown in FIG. 1.

Shell 12 includes inner cavities shaped to receive and hold camera 16,light source 18, inter-shell hose 40, and light pipe 14 in specificorientations. Lip 30 of light pipe 14 is received in recess 32 of shell12. Likewise, light source 18 is positioned to allow light therefrom tobe directed through light pipe 14, off reflecting facet 34, and outinspection surface 36. Similarly, camera 16 is positioned such thatlight entering inspection surface 36, reflecting off reflecting facet34, and traveling through light pipe 14 is received by camera 16.Additionally, shell 12 provides for wires (fiber optic, electrical, orotherwise) to extend from a rear end 52 thereof. A fiber optic cable 46extends to the external light source (not shown), an electrical cable 48extends to a computer 1126 to store, process, and display the imagereceived by camera 16.

Light source 18 is preferably a fiber optic system that conveysillumination from a remote source but may also be a local source withinshell 12 or any other source known in the art. The light may beoptically filtered by the system either before or after exiting lightsource 18. Such filtering excludes unwanted light and noise from thedesired signal. Furthermore, in one embodiment, light source 18 includesone or more light emitting diodes, laser diodes, or some combinationthereof (locally or remotely). In such embodiments, each of the lightsources may be of a different wavelength and combined as desired. Thewavelength of the light used may be tailored, lengthened or shortened,to the dental tissue being observed as well as to the desired lightpenetration and to the light collection instrumentation (camera 16) soas to provide the desired optical response. It should be appreciatedthat while much of the description herein refers to fluorescence as thedesired optical response, all types of optical responses are intended towithin the scope of the present disclosure. It should also beappreciated that the term “dental tissue” is used herein to include alltypes of tissue found in the mouth, i.e. teeth, gums, tongue, cancerouscells.

Optical train 15 includes a lens 50 and at least one filter. Embodimentsare envisioned where lens 50 and the filter(s) may be combined into onestructure or where no filter is present. Optical train 15 tailors theincoming information into a form that is best received by camera 16 andthat best provides the data for processing. Such tailoring may includeproviding selective attenuation of the reflected or scattered inputillumination, in addition to fluorescent emission data. While opticaltrain 15 is described as having one lens 50 and filter, many lenses andfilters may be included in optical train 15 to provide different fieldsof view and different magnifications.

Camera 16 is part of a digital imaging system that collectshigh-resolution images and live video of dental tissue. Camera 16 thentransmits the images, either through a wire as shown or wirelessly, tocomputer 1126 for storage and processing. When describing handpiece 1010as “wireless,” it should be appreciated that “wireless” is intended torefer to the lack of electrical or supply lines extending to or fromhandpiece 1010 that would tether handpiece 1010 to another object suchas a computer 1126 or an air supply (not shown). One suitable modelcamera is the DXC-LS1/1 sold by Sony. In the present embodiment, camera16 is a color camera that detects spectral responses of tissue to theprovided illumination. However, in another embodiment, camera 16 is ablack and white sensing camera. In one embodiment using black and whitecamera 16, a bandpass filter 17 as part of optical train 15 configuredto filter out light of substantially the same wavelength as theillumination source 18 is used and black and white camera 16 is used todetect scattering intensity. In another embodiment using black and whitecamera 16, a bandpass filter 17 configured to filter out light ofsubstantially the same wavelength as the tissue fluorescence is used andblack and white camera 16 detects the intensity of tissue fluorescence.

Before reaching camera 16, the light of the tooth images passes throughlight pipe 14. Light pipe 14 is a translucent (transparent) monolithicpolymer such as polystyrene, polycarbonate, acrylic, or glass piece thatattaches to an end of the shell 12. “Translucent” as used herein ismeant to describe any material that is not opaque, thus meaning anythingthat transmits light while causing light diffusion as well as anythingthat is transparent (transmitting light without causing substantiallight diffusion). While light pipe 14 is described and shown as being asolid piece, embodiments are envisioned having voids and gaps withinlight pipe 14. Light pipe 14 is constructed from polycarbonate but maybe constructed from any material that will allow light transmission ofan adequate fidelity and acceptable, preferably low, signal loss.

As shown in FIG. 2, light pipe 14 includes a proximal attachment end 22,a tapering body 24, a distal end 26, and a conduit support 28. Proximalattachment end 22 includes a lip 30 of constant depth and width. Lip 30is sized and shaped to be securely received in a recess 32 of shell 12.Separating left half shell 21 from right half shell 23 allows removal oflight pipe 14. Coupling left half shell 21 to right half shell 23secures light pipe 14 to shells 21, 23. Alternatively, shell 12 may beconfigured to have a pocket that slidably receives lip 30 therein and issecured by a latch so as to not require the detachment of left halfshell 21 from right half shell 23.

Tapering body 24 includes conduit support 28 attached thereto which willbe discussed in more detail below. Distal end 26 includes a reflectingfacet 34 and an inspection surface 36. Reflecting facet 34 is ininternal surface of light pipe 14. Reflecting facet 34 allows lightentering from proximal attachment end 22 across a proximal lighttransfer plane 25 to reflect and exit through distal light transferplane 27 of inspection surface 36 as shown in FIG. 3. Likewise,reflecting facet 34 allows light entering from distal light transferplane 27 of inspection surface 36 to reflect and exit through proximallight transfer plane 25 of proximal attachment end 22 as shown in FIG.4. As will be discussed in more detail later, reflecting facet 34 isshaped even more specifically to direct light from inspection surface 36to camera 16. The reflective properties of reflecting facet 34 areprovided by the difference in refractive index between the material oflight pipe 14 and the air surrounding light pipe 14. Thus, it is notnecessary to attach a reflective surface to light pipe 14 to achieve thereflecting properties of reflecting facet 34. However, embodiments areenvisioned where an external member is attached to light pipe 14 toprovide reflective properties.

Reflecting facet 34 is preferably at a 45-degree angle relative toinspection surface 36 and proximal attachment end 22. The 45-degreeangle allows true image transmission and refraction between inspectionsurface 36 and proximal attachment end 22. However, it should beappreciated that embodiments are envisioned where reflecting facet 34 isnot at a 45-degree angle, and various lenses, optical filters, and/oroptical processors, either integral or external to light pipe 14, areutilized to construct a true image.

Tapering body 24 and distal end 26 are sized and shaped to be receivedin the mouth of a patient and to access posterior molars which, as afunction of being farthest from the mouth opening, are typically themost difficult to access. Additionally, the size and shape of taperingbody 24 allows the device to be used on smaller patients where oralspace is more limited. Furthermore, light pipe 14 is lightweight, and assuch provides increased maneuverability and less user fatigue.

Conduit 20 is provided to selectively deliver air to tooth 54 todehydrate suspected lesions. Alternatively, conduit 20 may delivery anynumber of fluids to a position proximate distal end 26 of light pipe 14such as a fluoride containing solution, other reparative fluids, acontrast agent, or a biomarker.

Conduit 20 extends within shell 12 and below tapering body 24. As shownin FIG. 1, conduit 20 includes a connector 38, an inter-shell hose 40,and an extra-shell channel 42. Connector 38 allows an external supplyhose (not shown) to supply air, water, or another fluid to be attachedto inter-shell hose 40. Inter-shell hose 40 is coupled to extra-shellchannel 42 via shell 12 to allow matter from inter-shell hose 40 to passinto extra-shell channel 42 and out a distal end 44 of extra-shellchannel 42. Extra-shell channel 42 is a metal channel that couples toconduit support 28 of light pipe 14 for support. Distal end 44 ofextra-shell channel 42 is positioned such that any matter exitingtherefrom will be proximate inspection surface 36. Such local deliveryassists a caregiver in determining the activity status of a detectedlesion.

To effect the delivery, a supply tube of air (not pictured) is attachedto connector 38 and air is selectively pumped therethrough. Connector 38is coupled to inter-shell hose 40 which is coupled to extra-shellchannel 42 to allow localized delivery of the desired material.Furthermore, while the extra-shell channel 42 is shown as a tube thatremovably couples to an underside of light pipe 14, other embodimentsinclude extra shell channel 42 defined within light pipe 14.

The shape and makeup of light pipe 14 are designed to create a focalplane 56 for camera 16 at or proximate to inspection surface 36. In use,inspection surface 36 is placed within a patient's mouth to abutt aselected tooth 54. Abutting selected tooth 54, combined with thelocation of focal plane 56 of camera 16 allows for a caregiver to easilyfind a location for handpiece 10 resulting in a clear picture. Focalplane 56 is configured to be at a distance that is the sum of thehorizontal and vertical distances shown by dotted line in FIG. 4.Abutting inspection surface 36 with tooth 54 results in reproducibilityof the desired picture from one inspection to the next by removingpossible fluctuation of the distance between inspection surface 36 andtooth 54 between successive inspections and by reducing fluctuationsfrom unsteadiness of an operator's hand. Light from light source 18, asit travels to and from tooth 54, only passes through ambient air for ashort distance, if at all, when the inspection surface 36 abuts tooth54. Control over the mediums through which the light passes increasesthe amount of control present over the signal and reduces chances forerror that may be introduced if foreign matter is allowed in the lightpath. Furthermore, inspection surface 36 abutting tooth 54 increases thelikelihood that only light provided by light source 18 is exciting theobserved dental tissue and that the fluorescence observed by camera 16is a result of the provided illumination rather than from ambient light.Inspection surface 36 abutting tooth 54 covers the portion of tooth 54to be examined by the caregiver, thus light pipe 14 simultaneouslyprovides desired illumination while not providing space between tooth 54and handpiece 10 that would allow undesired tooth illumination.

It should also be appreciated that acrylic light pipe 14, or any plasticequivalent created by injection molding or otherwise, is relativelyinexpensive to manufacture and thus may be used in a disposable fashion.Such disposable use results in increased hygiene practices for a dentalpractitioner. Non-disposable dental implements are typically subjectedto a sterilization process, such as autoclaving, between patients. Thissterilization is costly and can cause deterioration of the materialbeing sterilized. Deterioration of a light pathway such as a lens, amirror/reflecting surface, or a translucent material can adverselyeffect the pictures gathered from such equipment. Accordingly, thedisposable nature of light pipe 14 results in increased image fidelityand increased hygiene for the patient. However, embodiments are alsoenvisioned that incorporate a reusable light pipe 14.

Another embodiment handpiece 1010 is shown in FIGS. 6-10. Handpiece 1010includes many similar pieces to those shown in handpiece 10. Handpiece1010 includes shell 1012, and end cap 1014 selectively attached to shell1012. Shell 1012 houses lens 1013, prism 1015, camera 1016, filter 1017,LED's 1018, air outlet conduit 1020, air valve 1060 coupled to airoutlet conduit 1020, air outlet valve button 1062, air supply valve1064, air canister 1066, battery 1068, electronics 1070, and on/capturebutton 1072. End cap 1014 includes left end cap housing 1080, right endcap housing 1082, and mirror 1084.

Shell 1012 is composed from plastic, includes right shell housing 1086,and left shell housing 1088. Right and left shell housings 1086, 1088each include button hole 1090 and power lead hole 1092. When assembled,right and left shell housings 1086, 1088 form a closed proximal end 1094and an open distal end 1096. Open distal end 1096 includes an exteriorgroove therein that cooperates with an inner surface (not shown) of endcap 1014 to provide a keyed interlock therebetween. Each button hole1090 is sized shaped, and located to receive and allow external exposureof one of capture button 1072 and air outlet valve button 1062. Eachpower lead hole 1092 is sized, shaped, and located to receive and allowexternal exposure of electrical leads 1098 of battery 1068.

Lens 1013, prism 1015, and filter 1017 function similarly to opticaltrain 15 to condition light to be received by camera 1016. LED's 1018emit light that reflects off mirror 1084 and illuminates tooth 54. Inthe current embodiment, LED's 1018 emit light having a wavelength of 405nm.

Air canister 1066 includes outlet hub 1100 that couples to hub 1102 ofair supply valve 1064. Air supply valve 1064 further includes air inlet1104 and air output 1106 coupled to air valve 1060. Air valve 1060 isoperated via air outlet valve button 1062. Depression of air outletvalve button 1062 opens air valve 1060 and allows fluid communicationbetween air canister 1066 and air outlet conduit 1020. Air outletconduit 1020 fluidly couples to cap conduit 1108 when end cap 1014 iscoupled to shell 1012. Air inlet 1104 is configured to receive an airsupply hose (not shown) therein to provide an air charge to air canister1066. Accordingly, air canister 1066 may be recharged as desired. Oncecharged, air canister 1066 provides pressurized air in air supply valve1064 and air valve 1060. Thus, depression of air outlet valve button1062 allows the pressurized air to escape via air outlet conduit 1020and cap conduit 1108. Valve 1060 may be electrically or mechanicallyoperated and air outlet valve button 1062 may be an electrical ormechanical button. Depression of air outlet valve button 1062 allowsvalve 1060 to open for a pre-determined length of time. Alternatively,valve 1060 is opened as long as air outlet valve button 1062 isdepressed.

Camera 1016 is coupled to and controlled by electronics 1070 and poweredby battery 1068. Capture button 1072 provides an input to electronics1070 to operate camera 1016. Electronics 1070 include antenna 1071 thatallows wireless transmission of images from camera 1016. Antenna 1071may be embedded in electronics 1070 or physically separate therefrom. Aspreviously noted, battery 1068 includes exposed electrical leads 1098that allow battery 1068 to be re-charged. One embodiment includesmicrophone 1099 coupled to electronics 1070. Operation of microphone1099 is discussed in more detail below. Embodiments are also envisionedwhere microphone 1099 is located outside of handpiece 1010. Suchembodiments include having microphone 1099 positioned generally withinthe room of an examination and electronically coupled, wired orwirelessly, to computer 1126.

End cap 1014 selectively attaches to shell 1012 and includesexcitation/air window 1110 and cap conduit 1108. End cap 1014 isdesigned to be disposable such that many disposable end caps 1014 wouldbe used with each shell 1012 and its contents over the lifetime ofhandpiece 1010. Mirror 1084 is oriented at a 45 degree angle relative toLED's 1018, filter 1017, and near surface 1112 of camera 1016 to directlight from tooth 54 to camera 1016 and from LED's 1018 to tooth 54. Capconduit 1108 is located such that air exiting therefrom creates acurrent along mirror 1084 and tooth 54.

FIG. 11 shows handpiece 1010 in a cradle 1114. Cradle 1114 includeshousing 1116, power cord 1118, and internal electrical contacts (notshown). Housing 1116 includes bay 1122 that is sized to at leastpartially receive closed proximal end 1094 therein. Power cord 1118 iselectrically coupled to the internal electrical contacts, potentiallyvia a transformer (not shown). The internal electrical contacts arelocated within bay 1122 such that the internal electrical contacts abutelectrical leads 1098 when handpiece 1010 is placed within cradle 1114.Bay 1122 may include a longitudinal keyway (not shown) therein thatreceives a key (not shown) disposed along or on shell 1012 of handpiece1010 to align electrical leads 1098 with the internal electricalcontacts. Cradle 1114 may also include a lever system (not shown)coupled to an air supply (not shown) such that placement of handpiece1010 within cradle 1114 causes automatic charging of air canister 1066.Alternatively, air canister 1066 may be charged in cradle 1114 in anon-automatic manner or by manual connection of an air source (notshown) to air inlet 1104 when handpiece 1010 is out of cradle 1114.

FIG. 11 shows wireless receiver 1124. Wireless receiver 1124 couples toa computer 1126, via a wired connection, to allow wireless communicationbetween computer 1126 and handpiece 1010. The wireless communication mayinclude a video signal or still pictures from camera 1016 and audiosignals from microphone 1099.

When examining teeth, active (growing) lesions, inactive lesions, anddevelopmental defects are characterized by a localized decrease inmineralization, or demineralization. Defects are not typicallyrepairable and inactive lesions often remain in such a state for yearswith no worsening of the condition. However, active lesions are growingdecay that provide a heightened risk to the patient. Therefore, it isdesirable to discriminate an active lesion from an inactive lesion or atooth defect.

Blowing air on the surface of tooth 54 containing the suspected lesionallows dehydration of the lesion and results in a change in thefluorescence of tooth 54 when properly illuminated if the lesion isactive. Non-active lesions and defects show little or no change indamage when dehydrated. Thus, it is desirable to be able to dehydratelesions once found to determine their nature. It is furthermoredesirable to be able to introduce a dehydration agent without grossalteration of camera 16 or the picture being taken so as to allow easycomparison of the hydrated and dehydrated pictures of the lesion.

In use, a dental care provider selects handpiece 10 and attacheslightpipe 14 (disposable or otherwise) thereto. Then, in certainembodiments, the provider places handpiece 10 within a sanitary sheath(not pictured) preferably made of thin plastic to provide a contaminantbarrier for the entire handpiece 10. With or without the sheath,extra-shell channel 42 is coupled to lightpipe 14 and intra-shell hose40. The external light source (not shown) and computer 1126 areactivated to provide light to light source 18 and to receive data fromcamera 16. The provider then places distal end 26 of lightpipe 14 intothe mouth of the patient such that inspection surface 36 of lightpipe 14abuts chosen tooth 54.

Alternatively, a dental care provider selects handpiece 1010 andattaches end cap 1014 to shell 1012. End cap 1014 includes cap conduit1108 integrally therein, so an external conduit, such as extra-shellchannel 42, is not necessary. Computer 1126 and wireless receiver 1124are activated to receive data from camera 1016 and microphone 1099. Theprovider then places end cap 1014 portion of handpiece 1010 into themouth of the patient such that air window 1110 of end cap 1014 abutschosen tooth 54.

If the patient has been examined with the system before, using eitherhandpiece 10 or handpiece 1010, then, for each examined tooth 54,computer 1126 is instructed to access the past images of the tooth 54(hereinafter, the “past images”). The provider, using computer 1126,attempts to match the placement of inspection surface 36 to theplacement used for the past images. The matching process may take theform of an overlay of the current video signal with the past image oftooth 54 shown on monitor 1128 of computer 1126. Such an overlay mayprovide an indication of the alikeness of individual pixels such that adental professional may visually interpret the number of alike pixels.The dental professional then adjusts the handpiece 10, 1010 to achievewhat appears to be a maximum number of alike pixels.

It should be appreciated that abutting of inspection surface 36 (or endcap 1014 proximate air window 1110) to tooth 54 removes one direction ofmotion that must be re-aligned to the previous examination. Once thedental professional achieves what he believes is the optimal position,the dental professional presses capture button 1072 or otherwise causesthe picture to be recorded (hereinafter, the “first picture”). Theprovider then continues to perform this procedure on each tooth 54.

If, at any point, a suspected lesion is found, the first picture oftooth 54 is taken just as for any other tooth. Then, at some later timeduring the visit, air is introduced via depression of a foot pedal (notshown), depression of air outlet valve button 1062, or otherwise sentthrough conduit 20 and cap conduit 1108 to dehydrate the lesion. Thelesion is then checked for activity. One manner of determining theactivity status of a suspected area involves taking a second picture oftooth 54 after the air is introduced to the tooth. After theintroduction of air, the dental professional again attempts to match theplacement of the handpiece 10, 1010 to the position used for taking thefirst picture. Once the positioning is sufficiently alike, capturebutton 1072 is depressed or the handpiece 10, 1010 is otherwiseinstructed to record an image. Computer 1126 then performs the overlayor other comparison of the second picture to the first picture. Computer1126 determines the change in fluorescence, expressed as a percentchange in fluorescence in one embodiment. If the fluorescence haschanged between the two pictures by a pre-defined percentage, then thelesion is known to be active. However, if the fluorescence has notchanged by the pre-defined percentage, then the lesion is held to beinactive or held to be a tooth imperfection. Embodiments are envisionedwhere the finding of an active lesion is accompanied by a beep sound orother obvious sound or visual indicator. Likewise, the finding of anon-active lesion is accompanied by an indicator that is easilydistinguishable from the indication of an active lesion.

A finding of an active lesion permits the dental professional toimplement a preventive treatment regimen consisting of periodicprofessional applications of a fluoride system, e.g., a fluoridevarnish, and home-use of a daily fluoride treatment regimen. After aperiod of 2-3 months the lesion may be re-examined to determine thestatus and the need for further treatment regimens.

During the examination the dental professional may wish to provideinformation, record notes regarding the patient, or to orally provideinstruction regarding handpiece 1010 operation. Accordingly, microphone1099 is provided. Microphone 1099 is in communication withvoice-recognition software on computer 1126 via antenna 1071 andwireless receiver 1124. The dental professional may indicate which tooth54 is currently being investigated or shown via pictures from camera1016 as well as indicating which surface of tooth 54 is beinginvestigated/shown. Accordingly, pictures and audio informationregarding tooth 54 are associated with tooth 54 at computer 1126.Patient notes may include the status of found lesions, periodontalconditions, or any other information that would be useful when reviewingthe pictures. Additionally, microphone 1099 may be used to cause actionwithin computer 1126 or handpiece 1010. Microphone 1099 may be used tocause action within computer 1126 by audibly declaring which tooth 54 isbeing observed. Whereas the software may include a system that storesone or more pictures for each tooth 54, the audible declaration by thedental professional may be used to indicate to computer 1126 which tooth54 is about to be viewed for purposes of bringing up the past image oftooth 54. Similarly, the audible declaration instructs the software tosave any taken first images so as to associate them with the propertooth 54. Microphone 1099 may also be used to cause action withinhandpiece 1010 or computer 1126. Upon achieving desired placement ofhandpiece 1010, the dental professional may utter, “capture” or otherchosen language to instruct handpiece 1010 or the software in computer1126 to save an image. Other events, such as turning handpiece 1010 onand off may also be set up to be performed in response to verbalcommands. Using verbal commands instead of a physical activity, such asdepressing capture button 1072 may increase image surety by lesseningthe likelihood that handpiece 1010 will be moved and the taken imagechanged by the dental professional moving to depress capture button1072. Other embodiments are envisioned where microphone 1099 is not partof handpiece 1010 but is rather otherwise coupled to the computer 1126.

FIG. 5 shows a prior art handpiece 110 that is sold commercially byInspektor. Inspektor handpiece 110 uses a detachable mirror 114 to aimlight to tooth 54 and from tooth 54. Mirror 114 and mirror mount 115detach such that mirror 114 and mirror mount 115 may be placed in anautoclave machine for purposes of sterilization. In use, Inspektorhandpiece 110 is adjusted relative to tooth 54 such that the focal point120 of a camera 116 is located on the tooth 54 surface. Maintaining thefocal point 120 of camera 116 on the tooth 54 surface requires theprovider to hold handpiece 110 steady. Proper placement of handpiece 110is determined by using the received picture as feedback. In use, mirror114 and a lens of camera 116 are open surfaces exposed to the oralenvironment. Thus, mirror 114 and lens of camera 116 are susceptible tocollecting foreign debris.

Another embodiment handpiece 2010 is shown in FIGS. 12-14. Handpiece2010 includes many similar pieces to those shown in handpiece 1010.Handpiece 2010 includes shell 2012 and end cap 2014 selectively attachedto shell 2012. Shell 2012 houses LED's 2018, air outlet conduit 2020,air valve 2060 coupled to air outlet conduit 2020, air outlet valvebutton 2062, air canister 2066, battery 2068, electronics 2070, and LEDactivation button 2072.

Shell 2012 is composed from plastic, includes right shell housing 2086,and left shell housing 2088. Right shell housing 2086 includes twobutton holes 2090. Power lead holes (not shown) are also disposed withinone or both of shell housings 2086, 2088. When assembled, right and leftshell housings 2086, 2088 form a closed proximal end 2094 and an opendistal end 2096. Open distal end 2096 includes an exterior groovetherein (not shown) that cooperates with an inner surface (not shown) ofend cap 2014 to provide a keyed interlock therebetween. Each button hole2090 is sized shaped, and located to receive and allow external exposureof one of LED activation button 2072 and air outlet valve button 2062.Each power lead hole (not shown) is sized, shaped, and located toreceive and allow external exposure of electrical leads 2098 of battery2068.

End cap 2014 includes left end cap housing 2080, right end cap housing2082, mirror 2084, and cap conduit 2108. Right and left end cap housings2082, 2080 each include sight windows 2016 defined therein.

LED's 2018 emit light that reflects off mirror 2084 and illuminatestooth 54. In the current embodiment, LED's 2018 emit light having awavelength of 405 nm.

Air canister 2066 couples to air valve 2060. While not shown, handpiece2010 includes an air charging valve and related conduit, similar to airsupply valve 1064. Air valve 2060 is operated via air outlet valvebutton 2062. Depression of air outlet valve button 2062 opens air valve2060 and allows fluid communication between air canister 2066 and airoutlet conduit 2020. Air outlet conduit 2020 fluidly couples to capconduit 2108 when end cap 2014 is coupled to shell 2012. Air canister2066 provides pressurized air in air valve 2060. Thus, depression of airoutlet valve button 2062 allows the pressurized air to escape via airoutlet conduit 2020 and cap conduit 2108. Valve 2060 may be electricallyor mechanically operated and air outlet valve button 2062 may be anelectrical or mechanical button. Depression of air outlet valve button2062 allows valve 2060 to open for a pre-determined length of time.Alternatively, valve 2060 is opened as long as air outlet valve button2062 is depressed.

As previously noted, battery 2068 includes exposed electrical leads 2098that allow battery 2068 to be re-charged. One embodiment includesmicrophone (not shown) coupled to electronics 1070. Operation of themicrophone is similar to operation of microphone 1099.

End cap 2014 selectively attaches to shell 2012 and includesexcitation/air window 2110, cap conduit 2108, and sight windows 2016.End cap 2014 is designed to be disposable such that many disposable endcaps 2014 would be used with each shell 2012 and its contents over thelifetime of handpiece 2010. Mirror 2084 is oriented at a 45 degree anglerelative to tooth 54, although other angles may be used. Cap conduit2108 is located such that air exiting therefrom creates a current alongmirror 2084 and tooth 54. Sight windows 2016 provide clearance such thatthe dental care provider may view illuminated tooth 54 that is abuttingair window 2110. A cradle (not shown), similar to cradle 1114, is alsoenvisioned.

In use, a dental care provider selects handpiece 2010 and attaches endcap 2014 to shell 2012. The provider puts on goggles or glasses (notshown) having filters for lenses. The provider then places end cap 2014portion of handpiece 2010 into the mouth of the patient such that airwindow 2110 of end cap 2014 abuts chosen tooth 54. LED's 2018 areactivated via led activation button 2072 and the resulting fluorescenceof tooth 54 is viewed by the dental care provider through sight windows2016 and the glasses. When a suspected lesion is found, air outlet valvebutton 2062 is depressed to release air, and the change in fluorescence,if any, is viewed by the dental care provider. This allows the dentalcare provider to determine if the suspected lesion is an active lesionand appropriate measures may be taken.

Although the invention has been described in detail with reference tocertain illustrated embodiments, variations exist within the scope andspirit of the invention as described and as defined in the followingclaims.

1. A handheld dental implement including: a housing defining an interiorspace; an endcap coupled to the housing, the endcap including an outerwall having an internal surface and an external surface, the externalsurface opposing the internal surface, the outer wall further definingan interior space, the endcap being readily removable from the housing;a light source located within the interior space of the housing; and amirror coupled to the internal surface of the outer wall of the endcapsuch that the mirror is located within the interior space defined by theouter wall.
 2. The implement of claim 1, wherein the endcap is coupledto a distal end of the housing.
 3. The implement of claim 1, furtherincluding a gas source located at least partially within the interiorspace of the housing.
 4. The implement of claim 3, the endcap furtherincluding a gas conduit within the outer wall thereof.
 5. The implementof claim 4, wherein the gas conduit is fluidly coupled to the gassource.
 6. The implement of claim 5, wherein the gas conduit includes agas outlet and the gas outlet is positioned such that gas expelledtherefrom contacts the mirror.
 7. The implement of claim 1, furtherincluding a gas conduit positioned to transmit gas from a gas sourceinto contact with the mirror.
 8. The implement of claim 7, wherein thegas conduit is further positioned to transmit gas from the gas reservoirinto contact with a diagnostic subject.
 9. The implement of claim 1,further including a light detecting device located within the housing.10. The implement of claim 9, wherein the mirror is positioned toreflect light from the light source onto a diagnostic specimen, and themirror is further positioned to reflect light from the diagnosticspecimen to the light detecting device.
 11. The implement of claim 1,wherein the endcap includes a distal end having a plurality of points onthe outer wall that are sized and located to be abutted against adiagnostic specimen.
 12. An endcap for use with a dental implementhousing including: an outer wall having an internal surface and anexternal surface, the external surface opposing the internal surface,the outer wall further defining an interior space; and a reflectivesurface positioned on the internal surface such that the reflectivesurface is located within the interior space, and the reflective surfaceis positioned to reflect light from a light source onto a diagnosticspecimen and reflect light from the diagnostic specimen to a lightdetecting device.
 13. The endcap of claim 12, wherein the endcap definesa proximal end and a distal end, the distal end of the endcap beingsmaller than the proximal end, and the endcap tapering in size from theproximal end to the distal end.
 14. The implement of claim 12, whereinthe outer wall contains a gas conduit therein.
 15. The implement ofclaim 14, wherein the gas conduit includes a gas inlet and a gas outlet.16. The implement of claim 15, wherein the gas inlet is positioned tointerface with a gas conduit of the dental implement housing.
 17. Theimplement of claim 15, wherein the gas outlet is positioned to expel gasinto contact with the reflective surface.
 18. The implement of claim 15,wherein the gas outlet is positioned to expel gas into contact with thediagnostic specimen.
 19. The implement of claim 12, wherein the endcapincludes a distal end having a plurality of points on the outer wallthat are sized and located to be abutted against a diagnostic specimen.20. An endcap for use with a dental implement housing including: anouter wall having an internal surface and an external surface, theexternal surface opposing the internal surface, the outer wall furtherdefining an interior space, the interior space being sized and locatedto provide for the transfer of light therethrough; and a gas conduitdisposed in the outer wall.
 21. The endcap of claim 20, wherein theendcap defines a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end of theendcap being smaller than the proximal end, and the endcap tapering insize from the proximal end to the distal end.
 22. The implement of claim20, wherein the gas conduit includes an gas inlet and a gas outlet. 23.The implement of claim 22, wherein the gas inlet is positioned tointerface with a gas conduit of the dental implement housing.
 24. Theimplement of claim 22, wherein the gas outlet is positioned to expel gasinto contact with the reflective surface.
 25. The implement of claim 22,wherein the gas outlet is positioned to expel gas into contact with thediagnostic specimen.
 26. A method of examining the dentition of aplurality of patients including the steps of: obtaining a dentalinstrument having a housing; attaching a first endcap to the dentalinstrument housing, the endcap having an outer wall having an internalsurface and an external surface, the external surface opposing theinternal surface, the outer wall further defining an interior space, theinterior space being sized and located to provide for the transfer oflight therethrough, the endcap further including a gas conduit disposedin the outer wall; examining the dentition of a first patient with thedental instrument; detaching the first endcap from the dental instrumenthousing; attaching a second endcap to the dental instrument housing; andexamining the dentition of a second patient with the dental instrument.27. The method of claim 26, further including the step of exposing thedentition of the first patient to gas expelled from the gas conduit ofthe first endcap after the step of examining the dentition of the firstpatient.
 28. The method of claim 27, further including the step ofreexamining the dentition of the first patient after the step ofexposing the dentition of the first patient to gas expelled from the gasconduit.
 29. The method of claim 26, wherein the step of examining thedentition of a first patient includes abutting a distal end of the firstendcap to the dentition of the first patient.
 30. The method of claim26, wherein the examination of the dentition of the first patient occursat a first appointment on a first day and further including the step ofexamining the dentition of the first patient with the dental instrumentat a second appointment on a second day.
 31. The method of claim 30,wherein the examination of the dentition of the first patient at thesecond appointment includes obtaining images from substantiallyidentical views as images obtained of the dentition of the first patientat the first appointment.
 32. The method of claim 31, further includingthe step of comparing the images of the dentition taken at the firstappointment to images of the dentition taken at the second appointment.33. The method of claim 32, wherein the comparison is automaticallyperformed by software present in a dental examination device coupled tothe dental instrument.